A Case Study on Diagnosis and Management of Chronic Hepatitis in A Shelter Bitch

Abstract

Chronic hepatitis (CH) is a progressive inflammatory liver disease that poses significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in veterinary practice. This case study documents the diagnosis and management of CH in a 7-year-old shelter bitch presenting with lethargy, jaundice, anorexia. Clinical examination, laboratory findings, and imaging revealed hallmark features of CH, including hepatomegaly, ascites, increased hepatic echogenicity, anemia, hypoalbuminemia, and elevated liver enzymes. The radiographic and ultrasound examinations revealed advanced liver disease. Management provided comprehensive support through the administration of intravenous fluids, antibiotics, liver-protecting medications such as silymarin, vitamin supplementation, and hematinic. This case study underscores the importance of non-invasive diagnostic modalities in resource-limited settings for the diagnosis and treatment of canine chronic hepatitis, and emphasizes the need for standardized therapeutic approaches. Chronic hepatitis in dogs requires further investigation through large-scale, collaborative studies in future research to develop more effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.